The United States urges all stakeholders to work to create the necessary condition to ensure that the people of Provinces 1, 5, and 7 are given the opportunity to peacefully exercise their democratic right to elect local representation during the second phase of local elections scheduled for June 28.

According to a press release issued by the U.S. Embassy in Nepal, the United States recognizes the efforts of all stakeholders -- including the Government of Nepal, the Election Commission of Nepal, civil society, political parties, and citizens -- to conduct a free, fair and transparent second round of local elections in Nepal. 

“Elections are how citizens express their political will, a right which is guaranteed by the laws and constitution of Nepal and Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” the U.S. Embassy.

“We urge all stakeholders to work to create the necessary conditions to ensure that the people of Provinces 1, 5, and 7 are given the opportunity to peacefully exercise their democratic right to elect local representation during the second phase of local elections scheduled for June 28.”

“We call on all parties to mutually respect the freedom of nonviolent expression and assembly, and individual voters’ rights as laid out in Nepal’s laws and constitution.  We also call on the security forces to exercise restraint and comply with existing national and international standards when carrying out their duties.”

The United States remains committed to working with all stakeholders for a peaceful, inclusive, broadly-supported, and credible election process.